Non-Energy Benefits of Efficient Oil-fired Water Heaters

Return to Non-Energy Benefits index

Efficient oil-fired water heaters may hold their temperature longer following power interruptions and operate more safely.

Many efficient water heaters are better insulated and will cool off more slowly if the heating elements are unable to operate. (Since they rely on electronic ignitions, even gas-fired water heaters are vulnerable to power interruptions.)

One type of efficient water heater (the so-called "sealed combustion" style) reduces the chance of "backdrafting", in which dangerous pollutants can inadvertently spill back into the home rather than being exhausted to the outdoors.